Kids Give Showbags The Thumbs Up

A group of kids were given a special showbag preview today ahead of the Royal Melbourne Show opening on September 17.

Minister for Consumer Affairs Marlene Kairouz officially unveiled the showbags to children and families helped by the Starlight Foundation, which provides much-needed support to sick children and their families.

The children gave the showbags the seal of approval, with Consumer Affairs Victoria also approving the bags after checking the safety of each toy in every bag.

Consumer Affairs Victoria has assessed 359 showbags containing more than 2,500 items ahead of the show opening including toys, sunglasses, cosmetics, stationary sets and novelty items.

Inspectors examined each variety of showbag on offer this year, and found:

• 37 items that were subjected to further testing
• A toy bow and arrow set that required warnings and instructions for safe use to be attached
• Four types of temporary tattoos and a nail polish set that required ingredient labels to help prevent allergic reactions
• Two toys and two types of baby shoes that required modification to remove choking hazards from small, detachable parts
• A mobile speaker remote control that underwent a series of tests to ensure the battery compartment was secure.

The suppliers of items needing instructions, ingredient labels or the removal of small parts have provided written assurances that the improvements will be made before being sold.

Following testing, the supplier of the speaker remote control gave a written assurance that it complies with the voluntary industry safety code for button batteries.

Consumer Affairs Victoria is also warning suppliers that inspectors will be out in force during the show, ensuring showbags and stalls are meeting safety standards.

The Royal Agricultural Society of Victoria has invited Consumer Affairs Victoria to inspect all toys destined for the show since the mid-1980s. For more information on product safety go to www.consumer.vic.gov.au

Quotes attributable to Minister for Consumer Affairs Victoria Marlene Kairouz

“Thousands of families come to the Royal Melbourne Show each year, and for many kids the showbags are the biggest hit.”

“It’s a privilege to bring a taste of the show to these kids today, who may not be able to attend due to medical reasons.”

“We have high safety standards for all toys in showbags, because children’s safety comes first.”